How to Use Security Cameras for Your Business
There's a whole lot more to a security camera than recording a break-in. You might be surprised how much a well-placed surveillance camera can benefit your business!
Exterior Monitoring
This is most likely what you think of when you think of video surveillance. Exterior cameras are useful in many ways, including:
Acting as a deterrent to burglars and trespassers. Criminals are less likely to break-in or vandalize if they know they're on camera.
Exterior cameras monitor back alleys, rear entrances, loading docks, and blind spots ripe for theft and criminal activity. Employees feel safer in these areas accepting deliveries, etc.
Monitoring parking areas, making your employees and customers feel safer when walking to and from their cars, etc. Watching a parking lot by video surveillance can deter vandalism, vehicle break-ins, or even acts of violence.
Interior Monitoring
Depending on what industry you are in, you may not think you need surveillance inside your business. Here are the benefits of interior surveillance:
Deter theft from employees and shoplifters. Consider installing cameras where employees feel tempted to stock up on supplies for personal use, such as stock rooms and supply closets. If it doesn’t dissuade it completely, cameras can catch the perpetrator and possibly get your inventory back.
Encourage safety compliance. Security cameras can be a valuable tool for investigating worker’s comp claims. Cameras can document an accident or injury, painting an accurate picture of what happened. They can also be useful in monitoring unsafe behavior that you can get ahead of before an incident occurs.
Monitor employee conduct. When the cat’s away, the mice will play. Want to know what your employees are up to when you aren’t there? Cameras in common work areas will discourage off-task behaviors and increase productivity.
Keep an eye on POS transactions. Do you suspect something just isn’t adding up? Installing a camera with a clear view of the cash registers or sales terminals can help you monitor transactions.
Whether you are using security cameras on your business's interior or exterior, there are many great reasons to add surveillance to your security arsenal. After all, you can’t be there 24/7 to keep an eye on the place, even during business hours.
Beyond keeping tabs on the interior/exterior of your business, surveillance is an opportunity to:
Achieve compliance for mandated oversight,
Defend you against lawsuits if someone becomes injured on your property,
Save money on security guards,
Receive discounts as a business protected by video surveillance.
The benefits are clear. No matter what business you’re in, security cameras will keep your business more secure.
